20200689 Ver 1_Wards Mill Dam PJD 5-06-20_20200526

Preliminary ORM Data Entry Fields for New Actions
ACTION ID #: SAW- Begin Date (Date Received):
Prepare file folder Assign Action ID Number in ORM
1. Project Name [PCN Form A2a]:
2. Work Type: Private Institutional Government Commercial
3. Project Description / Purpose [PCN Form B3d and B3e]:
4. Property Owner / Applicant [PCN Form A3 or A4]:
5. Agent / Consultant [PNC Form A5 – or ORM Consultant ID Number]:
6. Related Action ID Number(s) [PCN Form B5b]:
7. Project Location – Coordinates, Street Address, and/or Location Description [PCN Form B1b]:
8. Project Location – Tax Parcel ID [PCN Form B1a]:
9. Project Location – County [PCN Form A2b]:
10. Project Location – Nearest Municipality or Town [PCN Form A2c]:
11. Project Information – Nearest Waterbody [PCN Form B2a]:
12. Watershed / 8-Digit Hydrologic Unit Code [PCN Form B2c]:
Authorization: Section 10 Section 404 Section 10 and 404
Regulatory Action Type:
Standard Permit Pre-Application Request
Nationwide Permit # Unauthorized Activity
Regional General Permit # Compliance
Jurisdictional Determination Request No Permit Required
Revised 20150602
Wards Mill Dam Removal Project
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The proposed project will remove a concrete and rock dam structure approximately 20 feet high, 110 feet wide across the Watauga
River and 21 feet wide at the base. The project will include stream and restoration activities to redefine the low flow and reshape banks
to reestablish a natural stream channel through footprint of the existing structure and the immediately upstream and downstream areas.
Wildlands Engineering, Inc.
Jordan Hessler
Coordinates: 36.2413, -81.8304
Site Address: 443 Old Watauga River Road, Sugar Grove, 28679-9560
1961486427000
Watauga
Sugar Grove
Watauga River
06010103
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Wildlands Engineering, Inc.  phone [phone]  fax [phone]  167-B Haywood Road  Asheville, NC 28806
May 5, 2020

Mrs. Amanda Jones
Asheville Regulatory Field Office
151 Patton Avenue, Room 208
Asheville, North Carolina 28801-5006

Subject: Pre-Construction Notification Pursuant to Nationwide Permit No. 53 & No. 27 and Water
Quality Certification No. 4138 & No. 4134
Wards Mill Dam Removal Project
Watauga County, North Carolina

Dear Mrs. Jones:

The Wards Mill Dam Removal Project site is located at 443 Watauga River Road, Sugar Grove 28679 in Watauga
County (Figures 1 & 2). Wildlands Engineering (Wildlands) is working on behalf of the property owner to remove
an existing dam and to perform stream restoration activities in the vicinity of the dam. Agent Authorization form
is attached which provides verification that Wildlands is acting on behalf of the property owner.

We have included the following supporting data
• Cover Sheet,
• Vicinity, USGS, Site Map, Soils Map,
• Jurisdictional determination request form and deeds,
• Preliminary jurisdictional determination form,
• Field stream data form,
• Signed agent authorization form,
• Appendix A, and
• 11” x 17” copy of the 60% plan set

Please do not hesitate to contact me at 828-551-8582 or at [e-mail] should you have any
questions regarding this request for jurisdictional verification.

Sincerely,

Jordan Hessler
Environmental Scientist
¹Figure 1 Vicinity Map
Ward Mill Dam Removal Project
Watauga River Basin (06010103)
Watauga County
USGS 7.5-MINUTE QUADRANGLE VALLE CRUCIS
0 1 20.5 Miles
Project Location
Hydrologic Unit Code (14-Digit)
^_
¹Figure 2 USGS Topographic Map
Ward Mill Dam Removal Project
Watauga River Basin (06010103)
Watauga County
USGS 7.5-MINUTE QUADRANGLE VALLE CRUCIS
0 1,000500 Feet
Assessment Area
^_Ward Mill Dam
Site Coordinates: (36.2413, -81.8304)
!(
¹Figure 3 Site Map
Ward Mill Dam Removal Project
Watauga River Basin (06010103)
Watauga County
0 100 20050 Feet
Assessment Area
Project Parcels
Existing Building
Ward Mill Dam
Perennial Stream
Intermittent Stream
Stream Impacts
Non-project Streams
!(Stream Classification Point
S1 Watauga River(1,163 LF)
Old Watauga River Road
S2 UT1(120 LF)
!(
CsD
RoA
ArF
CkE
¹Figure 4 Soils Map
Ward Mill Dam Removal Project
Watauga River Basin (06010103)
Watauga County
0 100 20050 Feet
Assessment Area
Project Parcels
Existing Building
Ward Mill Dam
Perennial Stream
Intermittent Stream
Non-project Streams
!(Stream Classification Point
Soils
ArF - Ash-Cleveland-Rock Outcrop Complex
CkE - Chestnut-Edneyville Complex
CsD - Cullasaja Very Cobbly Loam
RoA - Rosman Fine Sandy Loam
S1 Watauga River(1,163 LF)
Old Watauga River Road
S2 UT1(120 LF)
Jurisdictional Determination Request
Version: May 2017
Page 1

This form is intended for use by anyone requesting a jurisdictional determination (JD) from the
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Wilmington District (Corps). Please include all supporting
information, as described within each category, with your request. You may submit your request
via mail, electronic mail, or facsimile. Requests should be sent to the appropriate project
manager of the county in which the property is located. A current list of project managers by
assigned counties can be found on-line at:
http://www.saw.usace.army.mil/Missions/RegulatoryPermitProgram/Contact/CountyLocator.aspx,
by calling 910-251-4633, or by contacting any of the field offices listed below. Once your
request is received you will be contacted by a Corps project manager.
ASHEVILLE & CHARLOTTE REGULATORY
FIELDOFFICES
US ArmyCorps of Engineers
151 Patton Avenue,Room 208
Asheville, North Carolina28801-5006
GeneralNumber: [phone]
Fax Number: [phone]
RALEIGHREGULATORYFIELDOFFICE
US ArmyCorps of Engineers
3331 Heritage Trade Drive, Suite 105
Wake Forest, North Carolina27587
GeneralNumber: [phone]
Fax Number: [phone]
WASHINGTONREGULATORYFIELDOFFICE
US ArmyCorps of Engineers
2407 West Fifth Street
Washington, North Carolina27889
GeneralNumber: [phone]
Fax Number: [phone]
WILMINGTONREGULATORYFIELDOFFICE
US ArmyCorps of Engineers
69 Darlington Avenue
Wilmington, North Carolina 28403
GeneralNumber:910-251-4633
Fax Number: [phone]
INSTRUCTIONS:
All requestors must complete Parts A, B, C, D, E, F and G.
NOTE TO CONSULTANTS AND AGENCIES: If you are requesting a JD on behalf of a
paying client or your agency, please note the specific submittal requirements in Part H.
NOTE ON PART D – PROPERTY OWNER AUTHORIZATION: Please be aware that
all JD requests must include the current property owner authorization for the Corps to
proceed with the determination, which may include inspection of the property when
necessary. This form must be signed by the current property owner(s) or the owner(s)
authorized agent to be considered a complete request.
NOTE ON PART D - NCDOT REQUESTS: Property owner authorization/notification for
JD requests associated with North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT)
projects will be conducted according to the current NCDOT/USACE protocols.
NOTE TO USDA PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS: A Corps approved or preliminary JD
may not be valid for the wetland conservation provisions of the Food Security Act of
1985. If you or your tenant are USDA Program participants, or anticipate participation in
USDA programs, you should also request a certified wetland determination from the local
office of the Natural Resources Conservation Service, prior to starting work.
Jurisdictional Determination Request
Version: May 2017
Page 2
A. PARCEL INFORMATION
Street Address: _______________________________________________
City, State: _______________________________________________
County:
Parcel Index Number(s) (PIN):
B. REQUESTORINFORMATION
Name:
Mailing Address:
_________________________________________
Telephone Number: _________________________________________
Electronic Mail Address: ________________________________________
Select one:
I am the current property owner.
I am an Authorized Agent or Environmental Consultant
1
Interested Buyer or Under Contract to Purchase
Other, please explain. ________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
C. PROPERTY OWNER INFORMATION
2
Name:
Mailing Address:
Telephone Number:
Electronic Mail Address:
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
1 Must provide completed Agent Authorization Form/Letter.
2 Documentation of ownership also needs to be provided with request (copy of Deed, County GIS/Parcel/Tax Record).
443 Old Watauga River Road
Sugar Grove, NC 28679-9560
Watauga
1961486427000
Jordan Hessler
167-B Haywood Road
Asheville, NC 28806
828-551-8582
[e-mail]
Ray and Virginia Ward
443 Old Watauga River Road
Sugar Grove, NC 28679-9560
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Jurisdictional Determination Request
Version: May 2017
Page 3
D. PROPERTY ACCESS CERTIFICATION
3,4
By signing below, I authorize representatives of the Wilmington District, U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers (Corps) to enter upon the property herein described for the purpose of conducting on-
site investigations, if necessary, and issuing a jurisdictional determination pursuant to Section
404 of the Clean Water Act and/or Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899. I, the
undersigned, am either a duly authorized owner of record of the property identified herein, or
acting as the duly authorized agent of the owner of record of the property.
Print Name
Capacity: Owner Authorized Agent5
Date
Signature
E. REASON FOR JD REQUEST:(Check as many as applicable)
I intend to construct/develop a project or perform activities on this parcel which would be
designed to avoid all aquatic resources.
I intend to construct/develop a project or perform activities on this parcel which would be
designed to avoid all jurisdictional aquatic resources underCorpsauthority.
I intendto construct/develop a project or perform activities on this parcelwhich may
require authorization from the Corps, andthe JDwould beusedto avoid and minimize
impacts tojurisdictional aquatic resources and as aninitialstep in a future permitting
process.
I intendto construct/develop a project or perform activities on this parcelwhich may
require authorization from the Corps; this request is accompanied by my permit application
and the JD is to be used in the permitting process.
I intendto construct/develop a project or perform activities in a navigable water of the
U.S. which is included on the district Section 10 list and/or is subject to the ebb and flow of
the tide.
A Corps JD is required in order obtain my local/state authorization.
I intend to contest jurisdiction over a particular aquatic resource and request the Corps
confirm that jurisdiction does/does not exist over the aquatic resource on the parcel.
I believe that the site may be comprised entirely of dry land.
Other:___________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
3 For NCDOT requests following the current NCDOT/USACE protocols, skip to Part E.
4 If there are multiple parcels owned by different parties, please provide the following for each additional parcel on a
continuation sheet.
5 Must provide agent authorization form/letter signed by owner(s).
Jordan Hessler
May 6, 2020
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Jurisdictional Determination Request
Version: May 2017
Page 4

F. JURISDICTIONAL DETERMINATION (JD) TYPE (Select One)
I am requesting that the Corps provide a preliminary JD for the property identified herein.
A Preliminary Jurisdictional Determination (PJD) provides an indication that there may
be “waters of the United States” or “navigable waters of the United States”on a property.
PJDs are sufficient as the basis for permit decisions. For the purposes of permitting, all
waters and wetlands on the property will be treated as if they are jurisdictional “waters of
the United States”. PJDs cannot be appealed (33 C.F.R. 331.2); however, a PJD is
“preliminary” in the sense that an approved JD can be requested at any time. PJDs do
not expire.
I am requesting that the Corps provide an approved JD for the property identified herein.
An Approved Jurisdictional Determination (AJD) is a determination that
jurisdictional “waters of the United States” or “navigable waters of the United
States” are either present or absent on a site. An approved JD identifies the limits of
waters on a site determined to be jurisdictional under the Clean Water Act and/or
Rivers and Harbors Act. Approved JDs are sufficient as the basis for permit
decisions. AJDs are appealable (33 C.F.R. 331.2). The results of the AJD will be
posted on the Corps website. A landowner, permit applicant, or other “affected
party” (33 C.F.R. 331.2) who receives an AJD may rely upon the AJD for five years
(subject to certain limited exceptions explained in Regulatory Guidance Letter 05-
02).
I am unclear as to which JD I would like to request and require additional information
to inform my decision.
G. ALL REQUESTS
Map of Property or Project Area. This Map must clearly depict the boundaries of the
review area.
Size of Property or Review Area acres.
The property boundary (or review area boundary) is clearly physically marked on the site.
5.20
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Jurisdictional Determination Request
Version: May 2017
Page 5

H. REQUESTS FROM CONSULTANTS
Project Coordinates (Decimal Degrees): Latitude: ______________________
Longitude: ______________________
A legible delineation map depicting the aquatic resources and the property/review area.
Delineation maps must be no larger than 11x17 and should contain the following: (Corps
signature of submitted survey plats will occur after the submitted delineation map has been
reviewed and approved).6
ƒNorth Arrow
ƒGraphical Scale
ƒBoundary of Review Area
ƒDate
ƒLocation of data points for each Wetland Determination Data Form or tributary
assessment reach.
For Approved Jurisdictional Determinations:
ƒJurisdictional wetland features should be labeled as Wetland Waters of the US, 404
wetlands, etc. Please include the acreage of these features.
ƒJurisdictional non-wetland features (i.e. tidal/navigable waters, tributaries,
impoundments) should be labeled as Non-Wetland Waters of the US, stream, tributary,
open water, relatively permanent water, pond, etc. Please include the acreage or linear
length of each of these features as appropriate.
ƒIsolated waters, waters that lack a significant nexus to navigable waters, or non-
jurisdictional upland features should be identified as Non-Jurisdictional. Please
include a justification in the label regarding why the feature is non-jurisdictional (i.e.
“Isolated”, “No Significant Nexus”, or “Upland Feature”). Please include the acreage
or linear length of these features as appropriate.
For Preliminary Jurisdictional Determinations:
ƒWetland and non-wetland features should not be identified as Jurisdictional, 404,
Waters of the United States, or anything that implies jurisdiction. These features can be
identified as Potential Waters of the United States, Potential Non-wetland Waters of
the United States, wetland, stream, open water, etc. Please include the acreage and
linear length of these features as appropriate.
Completed Wetland Determination Data Forms for appropriate region
(at least one wetland and one upland form needs to be completed for each wetland type)
____________________________________________________________________________
6 Please refer to the guidance document titled “Survey Standards for Jurisdictional Determinations” to ensure that the
supplied map meets the necessary mapping standards.http://www.saw.usace.army.mil/Missions/Regulatory-Permit-
Program/Jurisdiction/
36.2413
-81.8304
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Jurisdictional Determination Request
Version: May 2017
Page 6

Completed appropriate Jurisdictional Determination form
x PJDs,please complete a Preliminary Jurisdictional Determination Form7 and include the
Aquatic Resource Table
x AJDs, please complete an Approved Jurisdictional Determination Form
8
Vicinity Map
Aerial Photograph
USGS Topographic Map
Soil Survey Map
Other Maps, as appropriate (e.g. National Wetland Inventory Map, Proposed Site
Plan, previous delineation maps, LIDAR maps, FEMA floodplain maps)
Landscape Photos (if taken)
NCSAM and/or NCWAM Assessment Forms and Rating Sheets
NC Division of Water Resources Stream Identification Forms
Other Assessment Forms
_____________________________________________________________________________
7 www.saw.usace.army.mil/Portals/59/docs/regulatory/regdocs/JD/RGL_08-02_App_A_Prelim_JD_Form_fillable.pdf
8 Please see http://www.saw.usace.army.mil/Missions/Regulatory-Permit-Program/Jurisdiction/
Principal Purpose:The information thatyouprovide will beusedinevaluating your requestto determine
whether thereareany aquatic resources within the project areasubjecttofederaljurisdictionunder the regulatory
authorities referencedabove.
RoutineUses:Thisinformation maybeshared with the Departmentof Justice andotherfederal, state,and local
government agencies, and the public,andmaybe made available aspartof a public notice as required byfederal
law. Your nameandproperty location wherefederal jurisdiction is to bedetermined will beincluded in the
approved jurisdictional determination (AJD),which will bemade available tothe public on the District's website
andontheHeadquartersUSAGEwebsite.
Disclosure:Submission ofrequested information is voluntary; however, ifinformation is notprovided, the
requestforanAJD cannot beevaluatednorcananAJD be issued.
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eK01 L I'PG543
.. _. NORTH CAROLINA
WATAUGA COUNTY -
Filed for redstrn!! on the t 5eh day al
f - 19 88 -t 4: 20 _o da<h P.M. , and registered In tM
r
( offic d the rc_� o;cr of Ocads of 14atsd a County,. North Carolln9
on the _15111day of D Pmb— .199E
4 In Book I11 of Rar nrdc
at pap 543
Phyllis E. Foster
! RepJstar of Poe"
i� Deputy
Excise Tax , - Recording Time, Book and Page
Tax Lot No. ___.__ __...._. ............ _........ Parcel Identifier. No. _...__...... _.._...... . .........
Verified by _....._. ......_.... ..:__.___.... County on the ....: day of _._. 19
by..__.._. ....:._... _..:._. ........,.. _.....:........ ......._
Mail after recording to _....,,. _. _ _.... ..__.._ ._.._..... .:........
This instrument was prepared by..Miller ..and. .Moseley, . Attorneys..at. Law., P.O. Box-.49,.. Boone,. NC. 2860.7
Brief description for the Index
NORTH CAROLINA GENERAL WARRANTY DEED
THIS DEED made this .1.3th.... day of ._December ................. ___._ ,19 88 by and between
GRANTOR
Ray Floyd Ward and vife,
Virginia Cook Ward.
GRANTEE'
Ray Floyd Ward,a one—half undivided.
interest as a tenant —in —common, and
Virginia Cook Ward, a one—half undivided
interest as tenant —in —common,. and not
with right of survivorship
P.O. Box351.
...Sugar Grove, NC 28679
Enter In appropriate block for each party: rume, address, and, If ap_ priate, character of entity, e.q. corporation or partnership.
The designation Grantor and Grantee as used herein shall include said parties, their heirs,successors, and assigns, and
shall include singular, plural, masculine, feminine. or neuter as required by context.
WITNESSETH, that the Grantor, for a valuable consideration paid by the .Grantee, the receipt of which is hereby
acknowledged, has and by these presents does grant, bargain, sell and convey unto the Grantee in fee simple, all that
Laurel Creek, Wataugga Brush
certain lot or parcel of land situated in the City of .. __...... _,_., Fork,. Beaver Dam and lownship�
_ _Watauga _... County, North Carolina and more particularly described an Z. ows.
THOSE CERTAIN TRACTS OF LAND AS DESCRIBED IN EXHIBIT A ATTACHED HERETO
AND INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE.
j
TAx INFORMATION
REGORGED

The property hereinabove described was acquired by Grantor by instrument recorded in ..........
.................... _..................................................................-......................... ................................... ...... ......................
.
A map showing the above described property is recorded in Plat Book .......... ..... ....._. ........ page
fTO HAVE AND TO HOLD the aforesaid lot or parcel of land and all privileges and appurtenances thereto belonging to
the Grantee in fee simple..
And the Grantor covenants with the Grantee, that Grantor is seized of the premises in fee simple, has the right to convey
the same in fee simple, that title is marketable and free and clear of all encumbrances, and that Grantor will warrant and
defend the title against the lawful claims of all persons whomsoever except for the exceptions hereinafter stated.
Title to the property hereinabove described is subject to the. following exceptions:
IN WITNESS WHEREOF,
rsorat. ame by Ilc duty
she Gllntor has hereon(. et his nand and seal. r if rp.ble, he, eased this Instrument to be ,IrnN I. MI
to
aulhorleed and Ib .eel be hereunto affixed by aoWorlty of it. Roam .f Directors. the day and year filet
Icove written.
---------------- ----------------------------------------------"
(c.rporale Name) Ray Floyd W rd
BY: -'---'----------------- ------------------------------
r Y _-r.�r441GAi4J-4e'D�'R1.. �!--- ........... ...ISLAL)
_____________/______________P...Meet = Vir nia Cook Ward
Y
ATTEST:
..... ..... ------------ .--- (SEAL)
---------------------------------------------------------------
Secretary (Corporate Seal) j
___________________ ______ ________________ > N .(SEAL)
NORTH CAEOLIMA, __""_------ _____ _ County.
a Notary Public of the County and Stale a(oresaid, certify that _
aNNETTE M. CLINESM
Floyd_Ward Virginia Cook Ward
MY Commission Eapines
__Ray _and _wife,
- - """ - -' '..." -'— -_. Grantor,
October i, Mt
County of waeeuad
Personally appeared her— me this day and acknowledged the el-sti n of the foregoing instrument. wine.. my
r
Oq
.
: hand and official Items or seal, this _IS.. day of_.y��,eyet'g�L�y................. 19L.S..
rtY Cs11100
pp � �•
comm
hly isslon expirev:.,<
_.�o_._-!._1_�(',.�.tt_a!i .P Notary Puhlle
SCAL-ST.\11P _ NORTH CAROLINA_ ---------------------------------- County.
1, a Notary Public of the County and Slate olmecald, —t fy that __________________________________________
,e personally came before me Nis day and acknowledged that ____ he II --------------------------- Secretary at
c
ar"------------------------------------------ ------------ a NorN Carolina corporallon, and that by auNority duly
u
Liven and as the It of the corporatl.n, the foregoing Instrument wa. signed In Its name by its _______________
i g
u President sealed WIN Its eorporate seal and aLlevtedbY----------- as its ____----------------------- Secretary.
Wit.... my hand and official slump or seal. this ------- day of ___________________________ lf.........
NORTH CAROLINA — WATA 9 COUNTY ptrn_ ______________________________ ___---___ ------------------------------ Notary Public
The mrermnr C,ran<an(s) of --------- .__________________________ Annette_ M _-Clinebell,__No[ary_ Public,_____ _
Watauga- County,_ N;C.-----------------------------
-- --------------- -
W'.1 «rttiird to be ..nett. This instrument and this certificate are duly registered at the date and time and in the Book and Page III— on me
Ilrs[ Daie hereof.
____ __pllyl Ll E�qF,so s�t er
----------------------- REGISTER OF DEEB5 roa._.-__-_Wa.tauga------------ _-COUNTY
RY -- - 4
�C6GlJ(..0.1 --^_S- ---2.!---------------------__ Brputy/AYHSLSOS-Register of Deed.

EXHIBIT ATO
NORTH CAROLINAGENERAL .WARRANTY DEED -
RAY FLOYD WARD AND WIFE, VIRGINIA COOK WARD, GRANTORS
RAY FLOYD WARD, A ONE-HALF UNDIVIDED INTEREST AS A TENANT -IN -COMMON, AND
VIRGINIA COOK WARD, 'A ONE-HALF UNDIVIDED INTEREST AS A TENANT -IN -COMMON,
AND NOT WITH RIGHT OF SURVIVORSHIP, GRANTEES
DATED DECEMBER 13, 1988
Tract 1:
BEGINNING on a stake in the public road, corner to Lot 02
and runs South 25 degrees East with the road 12 poles to a
stake; thence South 9 degrees East 9 poles to astake;
thence North 00 1/2 degrees East,26 poles to a stake in Cove
Creek; thence North 15 degrees East 2 poles to a'stake;
thence North 21 degrees West With crook 20 poles to a stake;
thence North 46 degrees West with creek 7 poles to a stake;
corner to Lot N2; thence South 60 degrees West with said lot
23-1/4 Poles: to the BEGINNING, containing 3.8 acres,. more or
less.
Tract 2:
BEGINNING at a stake inthe P. Road near large Cherry tree,
the beginning corner of Lot No. 1 runs South 03 degrees West
26 poles with the line of said lot- to a stake in the garden
corner to said lot; thence South 60 degrees West with said
dine 42 poles to a. stake on top of the ridge in a division
line, corner to Lot No. 1 thence South 11-1/2 East with the
division line 14 poles to a stake on Lop of a ridge; thence
South 41-1/2 West with top of ridge 1.6 poles to a stake on
Lop of said ridge; thence West 26 pol.os to a stake WiLl,
service pointers; thence South.77 West 41 poles to a large
Spruce Pine, corner to Bill Ward thence South 55degrees
East with his line 22 poles to a small Water -Oak; thence 17
degrees West with his line 7 poles to a stake, his corner on
the. bank oftheriver; .thence South 60 degrees East wil:h the
River 9-1/2 poles to a stake corder of Lot- No. 1, thence
North 57 degrees East with a line of said Lot 60 poles to a
stake on the high part of the ridge corner of Lot No. 1;
thence North 77 degrees East- 72.p01es to a stake In the
public road; thence South 7 degrees East with said road 7
i poles to a stake; thence South 3.degrees West- with the said
road B poles to stake; thence South 25 degrees East with
the road 9 poles to a stake; thence North 60 degrees East
23-1/4 poles to stake in Cove Creek; thenco North 29.
degrees West with the same 20 poles to a stake; thence North
3-1/2 degrees West with the same 22 poles to astake; thence.
North 19 degrees West the same 12 poles to a stake; thence
North 1 degree West With the creek 10 poles. to -a stake; then
South 02 degrees West 6-1/4 poles to a Mulberry tree on the
bankof the road. corner of Lot No. 1; then .South 10 degrees
East with the road 10 poles to the beginning, containing 35-
1/8 acres more or .less.
Tract 3:
BEGINNING on a stake, corner to Warren Beira and runs South
39 degrees East 11 Poles to a stake In the oldroad; thence
with old road as follows: South 18 degrees East.4 poles,
South 40 degrees East 13 poles; South 39 degrees East 10
Poles; South 47 degrees East 4poles; South 03 degrees East
4 poles, East- 10 poles; thence leaving old road South 22
degrees East 4 poles to a stake; thence South 67 degrees
West 19 poles crossing abranch to a stake, corner to B. O.
Ward; thence North 3 degrees East 3 poles to a stake in the
branch; thence with said branch as follows: North 06
degrees West 3 poles; North 65 degrees West 23 poles; North
59 degrees West 8 poles; North 06 degrees West 9 poles;
North 80 degrees West 10 poles to a stake in the edge of
R �,w.

0111PC54b
Cove Creek; thence with Cove Creek, North 11 degrees West 6
Poles; thence North 23 degrees West 24 poles with Cove Creek
to a stake, corner to Warren Heirs; thence leaving Cove
Creek North 86 degrees East 30 poles to the BEGINNING,
containing 9.9 acres; more or less.
Tract 4:
' 'BEGINNING on a Sugar tree, now g
l gone, the old Farthing
corner, and runs South 61-1/4 West 60 1/2 poles to a Hickory
tree, thence South 89 West 39-1/2 poles to a stake, thence
South 45 West 16 poles to a stake, thence South 7 West 8
Poles to a stake, thence South 10 West 31 poles to a
Dogwood, thence West 32 poles to a Dogwood, thence South 4
West 16 poles to a service, thence South 52 East 86 to
poles a stake in the branch, thence down with the meandersof
branch as follows; North 41 East 5 poles --- South 73 East 4
Poles --- North 42 East 16 poles --- North 40 East 10 poles
--- North 48 East 10 poles --- North 59 East 8 poles to a
Lynn tree, thence North 3 West 21 poles to a stake, thence
North 33 East 6 poles to a stake, thence North 55 East
10-3/4 poles to.a Beech on a ridge, North; thence 66 East 8
Poles .to a stake in the branch, thence South 72 East 5 poles
to a stake by the road, thence with road North 59 East 10
poles to a stake, thence. North 71 East 16 poles to a stake,
thence North 18 East 6-1/4 poles to a stake at North West
corner of Antioch Church lot, thence South 83 East 24 poles
to a stake by Watauga River in the W. C. Clark Line 6 feet
above normal water of river, thence down the river and with
the Clark Line 56 poles, to a stake 2 poles from the
BEGINNING, thence South 61 West 2poles to BEGINNING,
containing 80 acres more or less.
Proviso: There is excepted from this conveyance the Cemetery
known as the L. W. Farthing Cemetary and. located as follows
to wit; BEGINNING on a Mahogany tree by the Watauga River
Road near the cemetery and runs North 36-1/2 West 5 poles to
a stake, thence South 8 West 2-3/4 poles to a stake at a
small Mahogany tree, thence South 86-1/2 East 5 poles to a
stake,. thence North 8 East 2-3/4 poles to the BEGINNING, and
the use of the road on the North side of the cemetery is
also excepted to the use of entrance for ingress and egress
to said cemetery at any and all times.
Tract 5•
I
BEGINNING on a Sarvis on the South Bank of Watauga River I
corner to Floyd Billings thence South 17 East 40 poles to a
Chestnut; thence East 67 poles to an Oak; thence South 115
Poles to an Oak now down corner tow. F. Winkler lands now
Aud Ward; thence West with the Winkler and Vard old line
48-1/2 poles to a stake in said line corner to George W.
Ward; thence with the line of George W. Ward North 41 west
16 poles to a stake North 16 West 30 poles to a Maple, North
71 West 16 poles to a stake on South side; thence North 62
West 1971/2 poles to a stake in the Aud Ward road corner to
George W. Ward; thence down and with said road 18 poles to
a Wild Cherry the Winkler old corner, thence North 68 West
crossing one branch at 4 poles another branch at 11 poles 28
poles in all to a Chestnut; thence same course North 68 West
with the top of the ridge 15 poles to a small Oak; thence
North 45 West with the top of the ridge 32-1/2 poles to a
stake in the W. J. Farthing line; thence North 21 East 16
Poles to a stake at the edge of a field; thence North 28
West 24 poles to a stake at a rail fence with a large White
l

1111K5,7
Oak pointer; thence North 20 degrees East 12 poles to a
stake in a wire fence near a large Cucumber; thence North 57 -
East 36 poles to a stake in the river road between the W. F.
Winkler residence and Watauga River Bridge; thence down and
with the said roads 66 poles to -a Poplar on the North side
of said road; the Winkler old corner; thence up the meanders
of Watauga River 52 poles to a stake opposite the mouth of
Cove Creek; thence North 35 East crossing the river up and
with the meanders of Cove Creek 60 poles to the Walker old
corner; thence South 75 East with the Walker old line 50
Poles to a stake in the branch the Adam flick's old corner;
thence South 2-1/2 West 76 poles toastake in Watauga
River; thence South 25 degrees East 8 poles to the
BEGINNING, containing.190 acres, more or less.
Tract 6:
BEGINNING. on a Poplar on the bank of the Watauga River, and
corner to V. D. Ward, and runs up and with the public road
66 poles to a stake in said road, with 0ak pointers; thence
South 57 West 36 poles to a stake in a wire fence; thence
South 20 West 12 poles to a stake; thence South 28 East 24
Poles to a stake in edge of field; thence South 21 West 16
poles to a stake in W. J. Farthing's line; thence with
Farthing's line North 45 West,11-1/.2 poles to the old
Sourwood corner; thence North 53 West 36 poles to the Old
Maple corner; thence North with V. D. Ward's line 53 poles
to the BEGINNING, containing 25 acres, more or less.
Tract 7:
BEGINNING on a Sycamore tree on the bank of Watauga River at
the end of the old foot log place, and runs up and with
Watauga River South 50 West 66 poles, South 40 West 37 poles
to a Sycamore;, thence leaving the river and runs South 46
East 20 poles to a Sassafras; thence South 76 East 43 poles
to a stake; thence North 55-1/2 East 33 poles to a Sarvice
by the road; thence with the road North 20 West 17-1/2
poles, North 3 East 13 poles to a stake; thence leaving the
road and runs North 55-1/2 East 60 poles to a Laurel; thence
North 2 East 42 poles to a Hemlock tree; thence North 24
West 7-1/2 poles to a stake; thence North 83 West 19 poles
to a Black Gum; thence South 77 West 24 Poles to a Walnut on I�
the bank of Watauga River; thence .up and with the bank of
the river South 18 West 29 poles to the beginning,
containing 41-1/2 acres, more or less, and being the same
tract of land allotted to Mattie Dyer, Nellie Tester, George
Thomas, Wilma Reid, Frances Bolt and Alberta Crosawhiteby
commissioners appointed in the proceedings entitled Mr. M.
S. Ward ve Mattie Dyer at al in the Superior Court of
Watauga County.
Tract 8:
Bounded on the .North by the lands of May Most and James
Mesta on the East by thelandsof J. J. Mast, Lawrence Moody
and Hard Thomas; on the South by the lands of Hard Thomas
and J. P. Thomas and on the West by the lends of Parke Ward
and containing 72 acres, more or lose.
3

BK©I11PC548
Tract 9:
BEGINNING on a Chestnut, Reese and Wilson's corner, runs
West with said line 34 poles to a Chestnut now down, said
Reese and Wilson corner; thence North 29 degrees East 16
Poles to a Poplar bush; thence North 30 degrees West 17
Poles to a large Chestnut; thence North 108 poles to an Oak
in a hollow; then same direction 42 poles to Reese and
Wilson corner; then South with their line 172 poles to the
BEGINNING, containing 32-1/2 acres, more or less, and being
in all respects the same lands conveyed to Ida May by
Willima May, Jr., by deed dated March 14, 1916, and recorded
in Book 49 at Page 67.
Tract 10:
BEGINNING on a small Poplar on Dower and runs North 3.0
degrees West with Bill May's line 17 pol.es to a large
Chestnut, said May's corner; thence with said line 108 poles
to an Oak, said May's corner; thence same direction with
said line about 42 poles to a stake in State line; thence an
East direction with said State line about 25 poles to a
stake, corner to A. J. May Tract; thence South with said
May's line about 37 poles to a small Chestnut, said May's
corner; thence with line of said May 15-1/4 poles to a
Poplar, corner to said May; thence with same 28 poles to the
BEGINNING, containing 30 acres, more or less, the same being
the lot drawn by Maggie May Payne in the division of the
W. M. May Estate; and being in .all respects the same lands
conveyed to Dean May by B. H. May be deed dated December 30,
1950, recorded in Book 70 at Page 46.
Tract 11:
BEGINNING on a Chestnut in the State Line and runs East 100
Poles to a stake; thence North 58 poles to a stake; then
West 10 poles to a Chestnut in the State line; then with the
State line tothe BEGINNING, contains 25acres, more or
less.
There is excepted and not conveyed the followed described
Property: BEGINNING on a Chestnut in the State line and
runs South 56 West 9-1/4 poles to a stake in the State line;
thence North 68 West 22 poles to a stake in the State line;
thence South 42 West 7 poles to a Hickory in a field; thence
South 38 East 13-1/2 poles to a stake in the hollow; thence
South 14 West 19-1/2 poles to a stake at White Oak above the
Love Old Spring on East side of road; thence South 77 East
Poles to a stake in the Love old line; then with said
line to the BEGINNING, corner, containing 10 acres. This is
'Love Land Tract No. 4. IT IS UNDERSTOOD that the above
description covers and included what is known as the Old
Love Spring.
Tract 12:
BEGINNING on a stake in the old railroad bed, and running
with the rail road bed Westwardly and Northwestwardly 204
poles to a stake in the Danner line; thence South about 17
Poles to a Pine stump in the Danner line; thence East 20
poles to a Sourwood; thence. South 20 degrees East 14 poles
to a Maple; thence South 18 poles to a Chestnut; thence
South 9 degrees East 36 poles to two itickorys; thence South
- 4 -
RM

PK01111549
60 degrees East 22 poles to a Hickory; thence South 56
degrees East 16.poles to aHickory; thence South 27 degrees
East 14 poles to a Chestnut; thence South 60 degrees East 13
poles to a Chestnut; thence South 36 degrees Gast 17 poles .
to a Chestnut Oak; thence South 20 degrees East 52 poles to
a stake and Locust, W. M. Hodges'. corner; thence South 20
poles to a large rock; thence South 35 Degrees East 18 poles
to three Chestnuts on top of Big Ridge; thence North 86
degrees East 30 poles to a Chestnut; thence North 70 degrees
East 18 poles to a stake;. thence North 38 degrees East 26
poles to a Chestnut; thence North 55 degrees East.12 poles,
to a stake; thence North 66 degrees East 20 poles to a stake
I in Dr. !lodges' line; thence North 20 poles to a stake in
Moody's line; thence East 14 poles to a large rock, Moody's
corner; thence North 10 degrees West 20 poles to a stake;
thence North 20 degrees West 48 poles to a Chestnut,
Bentley's corner; thence North 50 degrees West 26-2/5 poles
to a Sourwood; thence North 32 degrees West 29 poles to the
point of BEGINNING, and being the same lands conveyed to
Grantors herein by H. B. Perry and wife, Doris Perry, by
deed dated September 24, 1951.
Tract 13:
All that certain piece or parcel of land, being the .timbered
portion of Tract No. 19 as shown on a plat made by A. C.
Aldrich, Civil Engineer, in 1910, of survey of lands for
W. A. Hindman, and more particularly described as follows:
i
i
BEGINNING on a Buckeye and runs North I East 74 poles to a
Locust; thence North 53 West 19 poles to a Chestnut; thence
North 7 West 7 poles to a twin Chestnut-; thence North 10
East 11-1/2 poles to a Musewood; thence North 18 East 17
poles to a stake on top of the rock fence; thence North 85
West 73-1/2 poles to a Service; thence South 1 West 13 poles
to a stake at the Beech Mountain Road; thence South 18 East
32 poles to a stake; thence South 10 East 10 poles to a
stake; thence North 89 West 14 poles to a stake; thence
South 1 West 73 poles to a stake; thence South 86 East 87
poles to the BEGINNING, containing 57-1/2.acres,
Tract 14:
BEGINNING on a stake in Laurel Creek, at a rock, corner ll
between Floyd R. Harmon and B. 0.,Ward, Just below Floyd R.
Harmon's barn, runs South 21-East with the line between said
Harmon and Ward 4 poles to a stake; thence South 57 West 4
poles to astake; thence South 75 West passing under the
said Floyd R. Harmon's barn, 14 poles to a stake on the bank
of Laurel Creek at a Plum tree near said Harmon's grist
mill; thence North 35.West crossing Laurel Creek passing
about 12 feet below the said mill 6 poles to a stake on the j
hill side; thence North 44 East 20 poles to a stake in the
line between said Harmon and Ward; thence.South 15 East with
the old line 5 poles to the BEGINNING, containing 1/2 acre,
more or less..
There is also granted to the grantee herein, his heirs, and
assigns, right to construct a dam across Laurel Creek and to
beck the water from said dam the entire length of the above
described property.

01�1PG550
Tract 15:
BEGINNING on a rock running North 71 degrees East 22 poles
to a stake at Lionel Ward's Corner, thence North 16 degrees
West 17 poles to a stake at the road; thence South 70
degrees West with said line and turnpike road crossing creek
to Lionel Ward; thence North 75 degrees West 10 poles to a
Black Gum below the road; thence South 11 poles to a small
Oak bush; thence South 85 degrees East 9 poles to a Hemlock
on a rock; thence South 37 degrees East 16 poles to a rock;
thence South 15 degrees East 9 poles to a rock in the middle
of the creek; thence South 21 degrees East 5-1/4 poles to a
stake at the road; thence North 45 degrees East 9 poles to a
large rock on the upper bank of the road; thence North 3
degrees East 7 poles to a stake in the road; thence North 30
degrees West 7-1/4 poles to the BEGINNING, and containing 8
acres, more or less.
Tract 16:
BEGINNING on a Red How bush on .the bank of the Watauga
River, a corner between the Noah Mast land and the Hiram
Hicks land, running with said dividing line twenty-four and
a half (24-1/2) poles to a stake in said line; thence North
Nine (9) poles to a stake; thence East twenty-four and a
half (24-1/2) poles to a Witch Hazel bush on the bank of
said river; thence along the bank of said river to the
BEGINNING.
EXCEPTING from the above described property two small
cemeteries as now laid out and are being used.
This deed is also made subject to a Deed for water rights, 6
feet above normal tide heretofore -conveyed to Gastiger.
Reference is herein incorporated of a Deed from trustees of
the Missionary District of Asheville to John Ward, Clerk of
Antioch Baptist Church dated August 23, 1901 and recorded in
Book 5, Page 472.
Tract 17:
BEGINNING on a stake in Watauga River, and runs North 28
West 19 poles with the river to a stake; thence North 55
West 15 poles with the river to a stake on the bank of the
river; thence North 60 West with the river 26.5 poles to a
stake on the East bank of the river; thence North 7 poles to
a Water Oak; thence North 55 West 22 poles to a Spruce Pine;
thence North 80 West 12 poles to 'a stake; thence North 18
West 46 poles to a stake in John Ward's line; thence South
60 degrees West 36 poles to a stake in John Ward's line;
thence South 5 degrees West 55 poles to a Hickory; thence
South 50 West 26 poles to a stake; thence South 75 degrees
West 21 poles to a Sourwood; thence South 20 West 42 poles
to a stake; thence North 73 degrees East 43 poles to a
Spruce Pine; thence South 45 East 50 poles to a Hickory;
thence North 53 poles to a Sourwood; thence East 35 poles to
a Locust; thence North 22 East 22 poles to a rock on the
South bank of the road; thence with the South ditch line of
the road in a southeasterly direction 36 1/2 poles to a
stake in the Old Mill Tract line; thence East with the Old
Mill Tract line to the BEGINNING, containing 59 acres, morn
or less.
o�,yy
6 -

1KOI11PC551
Tract 18:
LYING AND BEING in Laurel Creek Township, near the Methodist
Church on the Rominger Road, adjoining Charles Mast, Coy
Rominger,.Mastin P. Trivette and Jack James, and being all.
the land owned by John Mast Estate in the above boundary,
containing 17 acres, more or less, bounded and described
upon available information as follows:.
BEGINNING on a stake in the forks of the road and runs with
the Trivette Road the following courses and distances:
South 2 East 7 poles; South 84 East 5 poles; South 55 East 4
poles, North 79 East 10 poles; South 73 East 6 poles; South
25 East 16 poles; South 42 East 24 poles; South 55 East 10
poles; South 44 East 7 poles; South 65 East 2 poles to a
stake in Trivette line; thence leaving the Trivette Road
South 15 West 10 poles to a White Oak tree;. thence South 22
East 26 poles to aLocust tree; thence North 85 West 23
poles to a Pine stump at or near, the Laurel Creek Road;
thence to and with said Laurel Creek Road the following
courses and distances: North 51 West 16 poles; North 28
West 10 poles; North 81 West 9 poles; North 82 West 4 poles;
North 51 West 8 poles; North 23 West 10 poles; North 50 East
16 poles; North 17 West 14 poles; North 46 West 6 poles;
North 73 West 10 poles; North 28 West 10 poles; North 6
poles; North 21 East 8 poles to the BEGINNING.
Tract 19:
BEGINNING on aSarvice by the road, and runs with the road
North 20 West 17-1/2 poles; North 3 East 13 poles to a
stake; thence leaving road North 55-1/2 East 47 poles to a
stake; North 2 East.35 poles to a Hemlock; North 72 East 11
poles to a stake; thence South 54 East 97 poles to a
Chestnut on top of the mountain; thence South 65 West 34
poles to a Chestnut; thence West 26 poles to two Sourwoods;
thence same course 29 poles to a stake; thence South 18
degrees West 62 poles to two small Dogwoods by the road;
thence South 55 West 39 poles to a stake on the ridge;
thence South 80 West 33 poles to a Beech; thence South 50
West 18 poles to middle of Watauga River; thence down with
the river 40 West 23 poles; thence North 51 West 36 poles;
North 29 West 8 poles; North 40 East 16 poles to a Sycamore,
corner to Lot No. 1; thence leaving South 46 East 20 poles
to a Sassafras; thence South 78 degrees East 43 poles to a
stake; thence North 55-1/2 East 33 poles to the BEGINNING,
containing 48 acres, more or less.
Tract 20:
The water rights owned by Mrs. M. C. Ward at her death on
the following described tract of real property:
BEGINNING on a corner near the mouth of Cove Creek and
running down the North side of Watauga River with the high
water mark about 40 poles, more or less, to the Grant line;
thence West crossing the river to the highway; thence up and
with the highway to a stake on the East bank of Watauga
River opposite the BEGINNING corner) thence crossing the
river to the BEGINNING.
�F
7
,;`d

SO 1 1FC552
Tract 21:
BEGINNING on a large rock on"the North bank of the river,
Farthing's corner; thence North 32 degrees West 3 poles to a
Chestnut in the Old Mill Tract Line; thence with the Old
Mill Tract Line West crossing a cliff of rocks and the river
to the highway; thence up and with the highway about 40
poles to the Winkler line; thence crossing the river to the
BEGINNING.
mb:2-12-21
i
j
I

PRELIMINARY JURISDICTIONAL DETERMINATION (PJD) FORM
BACKGROUND INFORMATI ON
A. REPORT COMPLETION DATE FOR PJD: 5/6/2020

B. NAME AND ADDRESS OF PERSON REQUESTING PJD: Wildlands Engineering, Inc., Jordan
Hessler, 167-B Haywood Road, Asheville, NC 28806

C. DISTRICT OFFICE, FILE NAME, AND NUMBER: Wilmington District, Ward Mill Dam
Removal, N/A

D. PROJECT LOCATION(S) AND BACKGROUND INFORMATION: 443 Old Watauga River Road,
Sugar Grove, NC 28679-9560
(USE THE TABLE BELOW TO DOCUMENT MULTIPLE AQUATIC RESOURCES
AND/OR AQUATIC RESOURCES AT DIFFERENT SITES)
State: North Carolina County: Watauga City: Sugar Grove
Center coordinates of site (lat/long in degree decimal format): Latitude: 36.2414 Longitude: -81.8304
Universal Transverse Mercator:
UTM 17
Name of nearest waterbody: Watauga
E. REVIEW PERFORMED FOR SITE EVALUATION (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY):
Office (Desk) Determination. Date: Field Determination. Date(s):12/14/19
TABLE OF AQUATIC RESOURCES IN REVIEW AREA WHICH "MAY BE" SUBJECT TO
REGULATORY JURISDICTION.

Site Number
Latitude
(decimal
degrees)
Longitude
(decimal
degrees)
Estimated amount
of aquatic
resources in review
area (acreage and
linear feet, if
applicable
Type of aquatic
resources (i.e.,
wetland vs.
non-wetland
waters)
Geographic authority
to which the aquatic
resource “may be”
subject (i.e., Section
404 or Section
10/404)
1.) Watauga River 36.241300 -81.830400 1,163 LF Non-wetland
waters Section 404
2.) UT1 36.241397 -81.830834 120 LF Non-wetland
waters Section 404

1) The Corps of Engineers believes that there may be jurisdictional aquatic resources in
the review area, and the requestor of this PJD is hereby advised of his or her option to
request and obtain an approved JD (AJD) for that review area based on an informed
decision after having discussed the various types of JDs and their characteristics and
circumstances when they may be appropriate.
2) In any circumstance where a permit applicant obtains an individual permit, or a
Nationwide General Permit (NWP) or other general permit verification requiring "pre-
construction notification" (PCN), or requests verification for a non-reporting NWP or
other general permit, and the permit applicant has not requested an AJD for the activity,
the permit applicant is hereby made aware that: (1) the permit applicant has elected to
seek a permit authorization based on a PJD, which does not make an official
determination of jurisdictional aquatic resources; (2) the applicant has the option to
request an AJD before accepting the terms and conditions of the permit authorization, and
that basing a permit authorization on an AJD could possibly result in less compensatory
mitigation being required or different special conditions; (3) the applicant has the right to
request an individual permit rather than accepting the terms and conditions of the NWP or
other general permit authorization; (4) the applicant can accept a permit authorization and
thereby agree to comply with all the terms and conditions of that permit, including
whatever mitigation requirements the Corps has determined to be necessary; (5)
undertaking any activity in reliance upon the subject permit authorization without
requesting an AJD constitutes the applicant's acceptance of the use of the PJD; (6)
accepting a permit authorization (e.g., signing a proffered individual permit) or
undertaking any activity in reliance on any form of Corps permit authorization based on a
PJD constitutes agreement that all aquatic resources in the review area affected in any way
by that activity will be treated as jurisdictional, and waives any challenge to such
jurisdiction in any administrative or judicial compliance or enforcement action, or in any
administrative appeal or in any Federal court; and (7) whether the applicant elects to use
either an AJD or a PJD, the JD will be processed as soon as practicable. Further, an AJD,
a proffered individual permit (and all terms and conditions contained therein), or
individual permit denial can be administratively appealed pursuant to 33 C.F.R. Part 331.
If, during an administrative appeal, it becomes appropriate to make an official
determination whether geographic jurisdiction exists over aquatic resources in the review
area, or to provide an official delineation of jurisdictional aquatic resources in the review
area, the Corps will provide an AJD to accomplish that result, as soon as is practicable.
This PJD finds that there "may be" waters of the U.S. and/or that there "may be" navigable
waters of the U.S. on the subject review area, and identifies all aquatic features in the
review area that could be affected by the proposed activity, based on the following
information:

SUPPORTING DATA. Data reviewed for PJD (check all that apply)

Checked items should be included in subject file. Appropriately reference sources below
where indicated for all checked items:
Maps, plans, plots or plat submitted by or on behalf of the PJD requestor:
Map: GIS figures including Vicinity, USGS Topographic, Site Map, and Soils
Map. Data sheets prepared/submitted by or on behalf of the PJD requestor. Office concurs with data sheets/delineation report. Office does not concur with data sheets/delineation report. Rationale: Data sheets prepared by the Corps: Corps navigable waters' study: U.S. Geological Survey Hydrologic Atlas: USGS NHD data. USGS 8 and 12 digit HUC maps. U.S. Geological Survey map(s). Cite scale & quad name: 1:24,000 Valle Crucis quadrangle Natural Resources Conservation Service Soil Survey. Citation: NRCS Web Soil Survey Website National wetlands inventory map(s). Cite name: State/local wetland inventory map(s): FEMA/FIRM maps:
100-year Floodplain Elevation is: (National Geodetic Vertical Datum of 1929)
Photographs: Aerial (Name & Date): 2015 aerial on GIS figures with submittal.
or Other (Name & Date):. Previous determination(s). File no. and date of response letter: Other information (please specify):

IMPORTANT NOTE: The information recorded on this form has not
necessarily been verified by the Corps and should not be relied upon for later
jurisdictional determinations.
5-06-2020 Signature and date of Regulatory
staff member completing PJD
DATE

Signature and date of person requesting PJD
(REQUIRED, unless obtaining the signature is
impracticable) 1

1 Districts may establish timeframes for requester to return signed PJD forms. If the requester does not respond within the
established time frame, the district may presume concurrence and no additional follow up is necessary prior to finalizing an
action.
0
Nr DWO Stream identification Form Vercinn d.11
Date:
ProjectlSite: ��Ai L
Latitude: 'l413a�
Evaluator: "
County:
Longitude:l
Total Points: {
Stream is at least intermittent 1�
Stream Determina clrcle one)
Ephemeral I ' rmltten Perennial
Other
a g. Quad Name:L4�
if 2: 19 or erennia!ifa 3A'
A. Geomorphology (Subtotal = f.2
Absent
Weak
Moderate
Strong
1° Continuity of channel bed and bank
0
2
3
2 Sinuosity of channel along thalweg
0
1
3
3. In -channel structure: ex. riffle -pool, step -pool,
0
�
2
3
ripple -pool sequence
lam/
4. Particle size of stream substrate
0
1
3
5. Activelrelict floodplain
1
2
3
6. Depositional bars or benches
_
1
2
3
7. Recent alluvial deposits
0
2
3
8. Headcuts
0
1
2
3
9. Grade control
0
1
1.5
10. Natural valley
T- )
0•5
11
1 5
11. Second or greater order channel
Nv =
Yes = a
R t-Ivrlrnlnrr� lCiiF�rnt�l - `f-, 1
12. Presence of Baseflow
0
1
2
31
13. Iron oxidizing bacteria
1
2
3
14. Leaf litter
1"57
1
0.5
0
15. Sediment on plants or debris
0"
�,0.5,�
1
1.5
16. Organic debris lines or piles
0'',
0.5
1 1
1 1.5
17. Soil -based evidence of high water table?
No = D
1 ,Yes = 3--,
Pr D'.-I--- 10-6t-6-1 - i t 1
18. Fibrous roots in streambed
2
1
0
19. Rooted upland plants in streambed
2
1
0
20. Macrobenthos (note diversity and abundance)
0
1
2
3
21. Aquatic Mollusks
0
1
2
�]
22. Fish
0.5
1
1.5
23, Crayfish
0.5
1
1.5
24. Amphibians
0.5
1
1 5
25. Algae
0
0.5
1
1.5
26. Wetland plants in streambed
FACW = 0.75; OBL = 1.5 Other ---�
'perennial streams may also be identified using other methods. See p. 35 of manual.
Notes:
'}
Sketch: S ry 11 S
�� � �
U.i �lou�S umv�-r
flow ' (Vtc) V e e 46A'A-t-yi_,
� � � S`�P�1 QF ✓`fYt2 CI �YYI 1
�d aci �tYr� ►� G�.l V�-�-i6�-et a �'°''`�
a

Appendix A

             Wildlands Engineering, Inc.   (P) 704.332.7754  •  1430 South Mint Street, Suite 104  •  Charlotte, NC 28203

February 28, 2020 

Shannon Deaton  
North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission  
Division of Inland Fisheries 
1721 Mail Service Center 
Raleigh, NC  27699 

Subject:  Ward Mill Dam Removal Project 
   Watauga County, North Carolina 

Dear Ms. Deaton, 

Wildlands Engineering, Inc. requests review and comment on any possible issues that might emerge 
with respect to fish and wildlife associated with the proposed Ward Mill Dam Removal Project on the 
Watauga River. The dam removal site is in Watauga County, NC. Enclosed for reference are the 
following: a USGS Topographic Map, Site Map showing an overview of the project area, Site Plan and 
Dam Removal and Stream Restoration Concept figure. The topographic figure was prepared from the 
Valle Crucis 7.5‐Minute USGS Topographic Quadrangle; the site is located at latitude 36.2413, longitude 
‐81.8304. 

The Ward Mill Dam Removal Project proposes to remove a concrete and rock dam structure 
approximately 20 feet high, 110 feet wide across the river and 21 feet wide at the base.  A Pelton Wheel 
was first established on the site in 1892.  It was subsequently rebuilt in 1906 using hemlock timbers and 
underwent several upgrades to its penstock and power generating facilities over time.  In 1963, the 
current concrete and rock dam was built to replace the historic structure.  The dam’s generation 
facilities have been decommissioned as part of the recent (2017) forfeiture of the FERC license. 

The Mill House will be preserved and protected in place.  No disturbance to the Mill House 
superstructure will occur as part of the project, although the foundation wall which is exposed at the 
edge of the riverbank will be buttressed with rock from demolition and riverbed material in order to 
ensure the long‐term integrity of the structure.  There is no current concern associated with the 
foundation, but the intent is to train normal river flows away from the Mill House. 

This project will include stream restoration activities to redefine the low flow and reshape banks to 
reestablish a natural stream channel through footprint of the existing structure and the immediately 
upstream and downstream areas shown on the attached Site Map.  In these areas, and in other areas of 
the current impoundment, native riparian vegetation will be reestablished through seeding and 
livestaking to enhance long‐term stability. Minor grading may occur along banks within the immediate 
vicinity of the dam structure and stream restoration activities in order to stabilize currently submerged 
areas that are anticipated to be vertical or susceptible to bank sloughing. Staging and access will take 
place in the footprint of the existing rocky access area and, as needed, the adjacent grassed area. The 
dam removal will reconnect 140 miles of stream along the Watauga River and adjacent tributaries. The 
North Carolina Barrier Prioritization tool ranked Ward Mill Dam as number one for removal benefits.  

             Wildlands Engineering, Inc.   (P) 704.332.7754  •  1430 South Mint Street, Suite 104  •  Charlotte, NC 28203

The WRC attended a project stakeholder kickoff meeting on December 4, 2019; Andrea Leslie and Chris 
Goudreau were in attendance. 

We ask that you review this project based on the attached information and relay any concerns for fish 
and wildlife issues. We thank you in advance for your timely response and cooperation. Please feel free 
to contact us with any questions that you may have concerning this project. 

Sincerely, 

Jordan Hessler 
Environmental Scientist/Designer 

Attachment: 
Figure 1 USGS Topographic Map 
Figure 2 Site Map  
Figure 3 Site Plan 
Figure 4 Dam Removal and Stream Restoration Concept 

North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
Gordon Myers, Executive Director

Mailing Address: Habitat Conservation • 1721 Mail Service Center • Raleigh, NC 27699-1721
Telephone: [phone] • Fax: [phone]
March 23, 2020

Jordan Hessler
Wildlands Engineering
1430 South Mint Street, Suite 104
Charlotte, NC 28203

SUBJECT: Ward’s Mill Dam Removal

Dear Mr. Hessler:

Biologists with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) received your
February 28, 2020 letter regarding plans to remove Ward’s Mill Dam on the Watauga River in
Watauga County. You requested that we review the project documents and relay any concerns
for fish and wildlife issues. NCWRC staff are familiar with the dam and have been a part of the
technical review committee for the project. Our comments on this project are offered for your
consideration under provisions of the Clean Water Act of 1977 (33 U.S.C. 466 et. seq.) and Fish
and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661-667d).

Ward’s Mill Dam impounds a section of the Watauga River that is part of the Watauga River
Aquatic Habitat, a natural area rated High by the NC Natural Heritage Program due to the
richness of rare species it supports. In the project vicinity, Eastern Hellbender [Cryptobranchus
alleganiensis, US Federal Species of Concern (FSC), NC Special Concern (SC)] and Green
Floater (Lasmigona subviridis, US FSC, NC Endangered) have been found in the river. The
project should not impact wild trout, and project activities do not need to be avoided during a
trout moratorium.

The project involves the removal of the 20 ft high dam and recontouring banks and planting
native riparian vegetation in the near vicinity of the dam.

Although we are concerned about loss of sediment from behind the dam, sediment modeling
performed by the design team has shown that sediment loss from the impounded section of the
river will likely be only a portion of annual sediment volume transported by the river. In
addition, there is evidence that the area behind the dam has been scoured out numerous times in
the past.

Ward’s Mill Dam removal Page 2 March 23, 2020
Watauga R, Watauga County
We recommend surveying the area below the dam for hellbenders before dam removal,
relocating any animals captured.
In addition, we recommend closely monitoring the river for stability for several years.
Problematic unstable banks should be stabilized and planted with native riparian vegetation.

Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on this project. Please contact me at
[phone] if you have any questions about these comments.

Sincerely,

Andrea Leslie
Mountain Region Coordinator
Habitat Conservation Program
Wildlands Engineering, Inc. (P) 704.332.7754 • 1430 South Mint Street, Suite 104 • Charlotte, NC 28203
February 7, 2020
Renee Gledhill-Earley
State Historic Preservation Office
4617 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-4617
Subject: Ward Mill Dam Removal Project
Watauga County, North Carolina
Dear Ms. Gledhill-Earley,
Wildlands Engineering, Inc. requests review and comment on any possible issues that might emerge
with respect to archaeological or cultural resources associated with the proposed Ward Mill Dam
Removal Project on the Watauga River. The dam removal site is in Watauga County, NC. Enclosed for
reference are the following: a USGS Topographic Map, Site Map showing an overview of the project
area, Site Plan and Dam Removal and Stream Restoration Concept figure. The topographic figure was
prepared from the Valle Crucis 7.5-Minute USGS Topographic Quadrangle; the site is located at latitude
36.2413, longitude -81.8304.
The Ward Mill Dam Removal Project proposes to remove a concrete and rock dam structure
approximately 20 feet high, 110 feet wide across the river and 21 feet wide at the base. A Pelton Wheel
was first established on the site in 1892. It was subsequently rebuilt in 1906 using hemlock timbers and
underwent several upgrades to its penstock and power generating facilities over time. In 1963, the
current concrete and rock dam was built to replace the historic structure. The dam’s generation
facilities have been decommissioned as part of the recent (2017) forfeiture of the FERC license.
The Mill House will be preserved and protected in place. No disturbance to the Mill House
superstructure will occur as part of the project, although the foundation wall which is exposed at the
edge of the riverbank will be buttressed with rock from demolition and riverbed material in order to
ensure the long-term integrity of the structure. There is no current concern associated with the
foundation, but the intent is to train normal river flows away from the Mill House.
This project will include stream restoration activities to redefine the low flow and reshape banks to
reestablish a natural stream channel through footprint of the existing structure and the immediately
upstream and downstream areas shown on the attached Site Map. In these areas, and in other areas of
the current impoundment, native riparian vegetation will be reestablished through seeding and
livestaking to enhance long-term stability. Minor grading may occur along banks within the immediate
vicinity of the dam structure and stream restoration activities in order to stabilize currently submerged
areas that are anticipated to be vertical or susceptible to bank sloughing. Staging and access will take
place in the footprint of the existing rocky access area and, as needed, the adjacent grassed area. The
dam removal will reconnect 140 miles of stream along the Watauga River and adjacent tributaries. The
North Carolina Barrier Prioritization tool ranked Ward Mill Dam as number one for removal benefits.
Wildlands Engineering, Inc. (P) 704.332.7754 • 1430 South Mint Street, Suite 104 • Charlotte, NC 28203
We ask that you review this site based on the attached information to determine the presence of any
historic properties.
We thank you in advance for your timely response and cooperation. Please feel free to contact us with
any questions that you may have concerning the project.
Sincerely,
Jordan Hessler
Environmental Scientist/Designer
Attachment:
Figure 1 USGS Topographic Map
Figure 2 Site Map
Figure 3 Site Plan
Figure 4 Dam Removal and Stream Restoration Concept

North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
State Historic Preservation Office
Ramona M. Bartos, Administrator
Governor Roy Cooper Office of Archives and History
Secretary Susi H. Hamilton Deputy Secretary Kevin Cherry
Location: 109 East Jones Street, Raleigh NC 27601 Mailing Address: 4617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4617 Telephone/Fax: [phone]-6599

March 9, 2020

Jordan Hessler [e-mail]
Wildlands Engineering, Inc.
1430 South Mint Street, Suite 104
Charlotte, North Carolina 28203

Re: Proposed Ward Mill Dam removal project, Laurel Creek Township, Watauga County, ER 20-0338

Dear Mr. Hessler,

Thank you for your February 7, 2020, letter concerning the above-referenced undertaking. We have reviewed
the materials submitted and offer the following comments.

There are several archaeological sites along this part of the Watauga River, including the National Register-
eligible Ward Site (31WT22). Most of these sites are adjacent to the proposed impoundment area, which will
experience passive water drawdown effects as a result of the dam removal. We do not believe that any
archaeological sites will be impacted by the water drawdown or by the removal of the dam structure.

The submitted plans indicate that there will be improvements on about 300 meters of stream bank directly up-
and downstream of the Ward Mill Dam that may include minor grading. Given the nature of this landscape and
its proximity to other archaeological resources, we have determined that there is a high probability that
additional archaeological resources may be present within the proposed area of disturbance for stream bank
improvements.

Prior to initiation of any ground disturbing activities within the project area, we recommend that a
comprehensive archaeological survey of the areas where stream bank grading is proposed be conducted by an
experienced archaeologist to identify and evaluate the significance of any archaeological remains that may be
damaged or destroyed by the proposed project.

Our office now requests consultation with the Office of State Archaeology Review Archaeologist to discuss
appropriate field methodologies prior to the archaeological field investigation. A list of archaeological
consultants who have conducted or expressed an interest in contract work in North Carolina is available at
https://archaeology.ncdcr.gov/archaeological-consultant-list. The archaeologists listed, or any other
experienced archaeologist, may be contacted to conduct the recommended survey.

One paper and one digital copy of all resulting archaeological reports, as well as one digital copy of the North
Carolina site form for each site recorded, should be forwarded to the Office of State Archaeology through this
office for review and comment as soon as they are available and in advance of any ground disturbance
activities.
We are unable to accurately assess impacts to historic properties within the proposed Area of Potential Effect.
The B. O. Ward House & Mill (WT0358) complex, which includes the dam proposed for demolition, should be
evaluated by a Secretary of the Interior qualified Architectural Historian and a report submitted to us for review
and comment.

Please be sure to review our Historic Structure Survey Report Standards
(https://www.ncdcr.gov/about/history/division-historical-resources/nc-state-historic-preservation-
office/environmental-0) to ensure timely review. Missing deliverables will cause a delay in processing.

The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and the
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation’s Regulations for Compliance with Section 106 codified at 36 CFR
Part 800.

Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment,
contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919-814-6579 or
[e-mail]. In all future communication concerning this project, please cite the above
referenced tracking number.
Sincerely,

Ramona Bartos, Deputy
State Historic Preservation Officer

cc: Annie McDonald, NCHPO